Explorez tous les épisodes du podcast The Not My Job Pod

Werner Graf wants to be Berlin's next mayor. First, he has to convince you Berlin still works.

Ahead of the September 20 Abgeordnetenhaus election, I sat down with Werner Graf (co-leader of the Green parliamentary group and the party's candidate for Regierender Bürgermeister) to talk about what five years of CDU-led governance have actually done to this city, whether the Greens have a real path back to power, and what he'd do differently this time. We get into housing, mobility, the Deutsche Wohnen referendum nobody in government wants to touch, and his vision for the city.

We're Covering:
Berlin housing policy and rent control
Cultural funding and preservation in Berlin
Transportation challenges and solutions in Berlin
Berlin's political landscape and coalition prospects
Impact of social media on politics and voter engagement

Instagram: @thenotmyjobpod // YouTube: @thenotmyjobpod // TikTok: @thenotmyjobpod

This episode is a thoughtful, wide-ranging conversation about Berlin, creativity, and the realities of building a meaningful career in the arts. Emily sits down with artist and tattooist James Song to explore everything from the politics of cultural funding to the tension between artistic expression and commercial success, all while unpacking what makes Berlin such a magnetic city for creatives. Along the way, they touch on identity, community, balance, and the economics of making a life around what you love, creating a conversation that is as personal as it is intellectually sharp.
--

art, Berlin, culture, funding, creativity, artist, city life, politics, entrepreneurship, art scene

Instagram: @thenotmyjobpod // YouTube: @thenotmyjobpod // TikTok: @thenotmyjobpod

Emily and Nam discuss the journey of opening two spas in Berlin, the challenges of navigating bureaucracy, and the cultural differences between Vietnamese and German perspectives. Nam shares insights on managing work-life balance while juggling his day job and the spas, as well as reflections on growing up in Berlin as a second culture kid. The conversation also delves into the significance of food sharing in Vietnamese culture and how it contrasts with German norms.

• Nam opened two spas in Berlin within a year.
• The process of opening a business in Germany involves significant bureaucracy.
• Managing two spas requires effective time management and teamwork.
• Cultural differences impact communication styles between Vietnamese and Germans.
• Food sharing is a vital part of Vietnamese culture, symbolizing love and community.
• Navigating the German bureaucracy can be overwhelming for foreigners.
• Self-employment brings both freedom and constant pressure.
• Growing up in Berlin provided a diverse cultural experience for Nam.
• The importance of balancing personal and professional life is crucial for entrepreneurs.
• Nam's journey reflects the blend of Vietnamese heritage and German upbringing.

Instagram: @thenotmyjobpod // YouTube: @thenotmyjobpod // TikTok: @thenotmyjobpod

In this episode, Emily Gant interviews Marina, the founder of Atma Portrait Studio in Berlin. They discuss the unique concept of the studio, which caters to camera-shy individuals and aims to boost self-confidence through photography. Marina shares her journey of starting a small business, the challenges of self-employment, and the importance of self-acceptance and body positivity. The conversation also touches on cultural influences on beauty standards and how Marina's tech background has helped her in running her business. The episode concludes with insights on entrepreneurship and the significance of community support.

Atma Portrait Studio, self-employment, body positivity, photography, small business, Berlin, creative expression, self-confidence, beauty standards, entrepreneurship

Instagram: @thenotmyjobpod // YouTube: @thenotmyjobpod // TikTok: @thenotmyjobpod

In this episode of The Not My Job Pod, host Emily Gant speaks with Marius and Rob, the co-founders of Felt Room, a unique concert space in Berlin. They discuss the origins of Felt Room, the atmosphere they aim to create, and the importance of community engagement. The conversation delves into their musical backgrounds, the design of the space, and the unique sound produced by felt pianos. Marius and Rob share insights on artist selection, balancing their personal lives with their passion for music, and their future plans for Felt Room, emphasizing the importance of organic growth and quality experiences for both artists and audiences.

Instagram: @thenotmyjobpod // YouTube: @thenotmyjobpod // TikTok: @thenotmyjobpod

What actually is a roadie and how do you become one? In this episode, host Emily Gant sits down with James Gerhart, a touring roadie for Saint Motel and other popular bands, to pull back the curtain on life on the road. From European tour buses to merch math, different crowds, and meeting famous musicians, James explains the unglamorous, hilarious, and surprisingly technical reality of making live music happen.

What a roadie actually does (and what people get wrong)

How James became a roadie—breaking into touring without a “traditional” path
Touring through Europe: venues, logistics, buses, borders, and burnout
European vs. US audiences: who shows up early, who sings louder, who buys merch
Meeting famous band members: normal humans, weird moments, and star power
Making a living on tour: pay structures, stability, and trade-offs

Merch 101:
How merch gets designed, produced, and shipped
Why merch sales matter so much for bands
What it’s like actually selling merch night after night
The chaos, math, and human interaction behind the table
The reality of tour life: long days, tight spaces, found family, and why people keep doing it anyway

Instagram: @thenotmyjobpod // YouTube: @thenotmyjobpod // TikTok: @thenotmyjobpod

In this episode of The Not My Job Pod, host Emily Gant speaks with Anna Vasileva about her journey from the tech industry to a more fulfilling career in publishing and licensing. They discuss the challenges of work culture, the impact of piracy on intellectual property, and the importance of personal time and mental health. Anna shares her experiences of moving with pets, the dynamics of friendships, and the creative freedom found in Berlin. The conversation highlights the significance of finding balance in life and the joy of embracing one's individuality.

Topics: tech, work culture, licensing, piracy, personal time, pets, social media, relationships, creativity, Berlin

Instagram: @thenotmyjobpod // YouTube: @thenotmyjobpod // TikTok: @thenotmyjobpod

Emily Gant chats with Peter Sum, a former tech professional turned culinary artist, who shares his journey from the tech industry to the culinary world. Peter discusses the influence of Berlin on his life choices, the importance of community, and the evolution of his culinary style through experimentation and feedback. He reflects on the unique food scene in Berlin, the challenges of running a culinary business, and the inspiration behind his venture, Kenzy. The conversation emphasizes the significance of following one's curiosity and passion in life.

Topics: culinary arts, Berlin, food community, Kenzie, tech to food, cooking journey, food culture, culinary feedback, food scene

Instagram: @thenotmyjobpod // YouTube: @thenotmyjobpod // TikTok: @thenotmyjobpod

In this conversation, Emily Gant speaks with Thomas Davies, known as The Yorkshireman Abroad, about the unique lifestyle in Berlin, balancing work and personal passions, the evolving nightlife scene, and the impact of social media on personal identity. They explore themes of sobriety, community, and the challenges of making connections in a new city, while also discussing the importance of authenticity in content creation and the balance between capitalism and local culture. Thomas shares insights on his future projects and offers advice for those looking to make significant life changes.

Takeaways:
Berlin offers a unique balance between work and personal interests.
Social media can create a sense of community but also pressure.
Sobriety in nightlife can lead to different social experiences.
The evolution of nightlife reflects changing generational attitudes.
Language barriers can limit cultural integration in Berlin.
Disconnection from home can lead to personal growth.
Content creation should focus on authenticity and connection.
Community engagement is essential for personal fulfillment.
Navigating social media dynamics requires resilience.
It's never too late to change your environment and life path.

Instagram: @thenotmyjobpod // YouTube: @thenotmyjobpod // TikTok: @thenotmyjobpod

In this solo episode, Emily Gant reflects on her life experiences and shares her personal insights through the lens of the '10 unwritten laws of life.' She discusses her recent milestone of turning 35, the shift from goal-oriented thinking to finding joy in the present, and the importance of effort in friendships. Emily also explores the nuances of money in relationships, the difference between being tired and burnt out, and her love for cities, particularly Paris. The episode concludes with thoughts on the comfort of silence in relationships and a newfound perspective on aspirations.

Takeaways

• Turning 35 brings a mix of reflections and realizations.
• Life experiences shape our understanding of age and maturity.
• Shifting from numerical goals to enjoying the process is liberating.
• Effort in friendships is crucial for maintaining connections.
• Money attitudes can impact relationships significantly.
• Listening is often more valuable than offering unsolicited advice.
• Recognizing the difference between tiredness and burnout is essential.
• Cities can evoke deep emotional connections, similar to relationships.
• Silence in friendships can be a sign of comfort and understanding.
• It's okay to appreciate what you have without constantly striving for more.

Instagram: @thenotmyjobpod // YouTube: @thenotmyjobpod // TikTok: @thenotmyjobpod

Emily Gant interviews Mia Warnecke, a first-year medical student in Germany. They discuss Mia's journey into medicine, the influence of her family, and the importance of gender health awareness. The conversation explores the differences in educational systems between Germany and Canada, the challenges of student life in Berlin, and the significance of empathy in medical training. Mia shares her aspirations for travel and independence, as well as her thoughts on generational differences in social behavior and communication.

Instagram: @thenotmyjobpod // YouTube: @thenotmyjobpod // TikTok: @thenotmyjobpod

Berlin-based DJ putC joins Emily Gant to discuss the techno scene in Berlin, the role of collectives, and the unique culture of Berlin's nightlife. putC explores the journey of becoming a DJ, the importance of community, and the challenges of balancing passion with practicality.

Instagram: @thenotmyjobpod // YouTube: @thenotmyjobpod // TikTok: @thenotmyjobpod

What does it cost to use your voice?

In this episode, Emily sits down with Faravaz, an Iranian musician and activist whose journey from Tehran to Berlin is a powerful story of resilience, courage, and resistance.

Faravaz shares what it was like growing up in Iran, navigating a music industry where women face significant restrictions, and the decision to continue creating and sharing music despite the risks. We discuss the events that led to her arrest, her eventual exile from Iran, and the challenges of rebuilding a life in Germany as a refugee and artist.

We also talk about her latest single, Passport, the role of music in social and political movements, supporting women's rights in Iran and Afghanistan, and why artistic expression remains one of the most powerful tools for challenging oppression.

This conversation explores identity, belonging, activism, and the ways art can inspire change—even in the face of immense obstacles.

Topics discussed:
• Growing up in Tehran and discovering music
• Censorship and restrictions on women in Iran
• Arrest, exile, and starting over in Germany
• Music as activism and resistance
• Women's rights and social justice
• Identity, belonging, and self-expression
• The challenges facing artists today
• How listeners can support marginalized voices

If you enjoyed this conversation, don't forget to like, subscribe, and share it with someone who would find Faravaz's story inspiring.

Instagram: @thenotmyjobpod // YouTube: @thenotmyjobpod // TikTok: @thenotmyjobpod

Stand-up comedian Erica Switzer shares her journey through the comedy scene, from her beginnings in Shanghai to her current experiences in Chicago. The discussion delves into the evolution of her comedic style, the unique challenges faced in different cultural contexts, and the impact of social media on the comedy landscape. Erica reflects on her identity as a black woman in comedy, the importance of connection, and the role of humor in bridging divides, especially in today's politically charged environment.

Instagram: @thenotmyjobpod // YouTube: @thenotmyjobpod // TikTok: @thenotmyjobpod

Emily Gant interviews Lauren Morgan, a non-traditional medical student and wellness coach. They discuss Lauren's journey to medical school, the challenges of balancing motherhood with her studies, and the importance of community support. The conversation also delves into the differences between DO and MD paths, the integration of mental health in medicine, and the emerging role of psychedelics in treatment. Lauren shares her insights on personal growth, spirituality, and the importance of pursuing one's dreams, regardless of age or circumstances.

Takeaways:
Lauren's journey to becoming a physician was non-traditional and winding.
Experiences in neuroscience and wellness coaching enriched her medical training.
The importance of community support in parenting and medical training.
The distinction between DO and MD, and the unique training of DOs.
Psychedelics are gaining recognition in mental health treatment.
Balancing logic and spirituality is essential in medicine.
It's never too late to pursue your dreams, even in medicine.
Parenting during medical school presents unique challenges and rewards.
The significance of personal growth and self-reflection in achieving goals.
A supportive community can make a significant difference in parenting.

Instagram: @thenotmyjobpod // YouTube: @thenotmyjobpod // TikTok: @thenotmyjobpod

Judge Juli Mathew shares her journey from an immigrant background to becoming a judge in Texas. She discusses the challenges of campaigning, the importance of community engagement, and her experiences as a female judge. Juli reflects on her cultural identity, the judicial process, and the significance of hard work and resilience in overcoming obstacles. Through her insights, she emphasizes the need for representation in the judiciary and the impact of privilege on opportunities.

Instagram: @thenotmyjobpod // YouTube: @thenotmyjobpod // TikTok: @thenotmyjobpod

In this solo episode, Emily Gant reflects on her journey of creating a podcast, discussing the challenges of social media, the pressure to perform, and the importance of connection and community. She shares her thoughts on balancing content creation with personal life, the complexities of learning, and the choices we make in pursuing our passions. Emily emphasizes the need for community spaces and the value of taking things slow, ultimately expressing excitement for the future of her podcast and personal growth.

• Creating a podcast is a learning experience.
• Social media expectations can be overwhelming.
• There's pressure to perform and be 'on' all the time.
• Connection is more important than metrics.
• Community spaces are essential for building relationships.
• It's okay to take things slow and learn at your own pace.
• Balancing life and content creation is a continuous challenge.
• Decision paralysis can hinder personal growth.
• Exploring different perspectives enriches conversations.
• Embracing the journey is more important than the destination.

Instagram: @thenotmyjobpod // YouTube: @thenotmyjobpod // TikTok: @thenotmyjobpod

In this conversation, Blair and Emily explore the intersection of somatic therapy, internal family systems, and the importance of community in mental health. They discuss how trauma affects the body, the role of spirituality in healing, and the challenges of building connections in a digital age. The dialogue emphasizes the need for vulnerability, empathy, and the significance of small talk in fostering relationships. They also touch on decision-making, the nature of suffering, and the importance of community support in personal growth.

Want to contact Blair directly? IG: blair.thurston // https://www.blairthurstoncounseling.com/ 

Instagram: @thenotmyjobpod // YouTube: @thenotmyjobpod // TikTok: @thenotmyjobpod

In this episode, Emily Gant speaks with Hope Maguire, a new entrepreneur launching a leak-free bra designed for breastfeeding mothers. Hope shares her journey from the initial idea to product development, highlighting the challenges faced in creating a sustainable and functional product. The conversation delves into the societal pressures surrounding motherhood, the importance of community support for new mothers, and the balance between family life and entrepreneurship. Hope emphasizes the need for better breastfeeding products and the role of women in addressing these issues in the market.

Instagram: @thenotmyjobpod // YouTube: @thenotmyjobpod // TikTok: @thenotmyjobpod

Join host Emily Gant as she sits down with Heather Villasenor, a dedicated behavioral health clinician specializing in youth and family therapy. In this episode, they explore the intricacies of working with young clients, the importance of letting the mind wander, and the unique challenges faced by therapists in today's fast-paced world. 

Heather also shares her journey from the Peace Corps to becoming a therapist, offering insights into the value of community-based therapy and the impact of cultural perspectives on mental health. Tune in for an enlightening conversation that delves into the heart of what it means to support and guide the next generation.

Instagram: @thenotmyjobpod // YouTube: @thenotmyjobpod // TikTok: @thenotmyjobpod

Join Emily Gant as she shares her journey of moving from the US to Germany. Discover the challenges she faced, from navigating visas to finding community, and the rewarding experiences that come with embracing a new culture. 

Whether you're considering a move abroad or simply curious about life in Germany, this episode offers valuable insights and personal reflections. Don't miss out on Emily's candid take on immigration, personal growth, and the importance of creative hobbies. #ImmigrationJourney #LifeInGermany #PersonalGrowth

Instagram: @thenotmyjobpod // YouTube: @thenotmyjobpod // TikTok: @thenotmyjobpod

Join host Emily Gant on the "Not My Job Pod" as she chats with Sandi Field, a  teacher with a fascinating past. Discover the wild journey through Sandy's 24 unique jobs, from restaurant gigs to working at a strip club. 

Explore the lessons learned and the unexpected paths taken in pursuit of happiness over ambition. Tune in for a candid conversation about life, work, and finding joy in the unconventional. #NotMyJobPod #CareerJourney #LifeLessons

Instagram: @thenotmyjobpod // YouTube: @thenotmyjobpod // TikTok: @thenotmyjobpod

Join host Emily Gant on the Not My Job Pod as she chats with Sydney Berendse, a marketing professional turned certified yoga teacher. In this episode, Sydney shares her journey from tech to yoga, the challenges of balancing tradition with modern practices, and the importance of inclusivity in yoga classes. 

Discover insights into the spiritual and physical aspects of yoga, and how Sydney navigates the complexities of teaching in a Westernized context. Whether you're a yoga enthusiast or curious about career transitions, this episode offers a thoughtful exploration of passion and purpose. #yogajourney #CareerChange #NotMyJobPod

Instagram: @thenotmyjobpod // YouTube: @thenotmyjobpod // TikTok: @thenotmyjobpod

Judy LaDivina shares her journey from Tel Aviv to Berlin, where she discovered her drag persona and the queer community. She discusses the importance of joy as a form of activism, the challenges within the queer community, and her role in empowering new drag artists through her show, Tell Mama. Judy also reflects on her experiences in theater, the significance of language in performance, and the complexities of navigating personal relationships, particularly with her family. Throughout the discussion, she emphasizes the need for open dialogue and the power of storytelling in bridging divides. In this engaging conversation, Judy and Emily explore the transformative power of performance and community, particularly in the context of drag shows. They discuss the shift from joy to conversation in the wake of conflict, the complexities of identity and justification, and the importance of inclusivity in politics and society. Judy emphasizes the need for compassion and understanding, advocating for a future where dialogue transcends division and celebrates shared humanity.

Takeaways

• Judy Ladivina was born in Berlin, where she discovered her drag persona.
• Berlin provided Judy the freedom to explore her identity.
• The queer community offers a space for fluidity and exploration.
• Joy can be a powerful form of political activism.
• Tell Mama is an intimate show that invites audience interaction.
• The drag community in Berlin is supportive and collaborative.
• Language accessibility in theater is crucial for inclusivity.
• Judy has lip-synced in 52 languages, enhancing audience connection.
• Theater allows Judy to weave personal stories into performances.
• Bridging generational gaps requires understanding and patience. The power of performance can foster community and connection.
• Transforming joy into conversation can address deeper societal issues.
• Identity plays a crucial role in navigating conflict and understanding.
• Justification of violence is a complex and dangerous narrative.
• Moving beyond the past is essential for future progress.
• Inclusivity in politics is necessary for a functioning democracy.
• Expanding social circles can lead to richer conversations and understanding.
• Compassion and kindness are fundamental in addressing trauma and conflict.
• The future should focus on possibilities rather than divisions.
• Engagement in dialogue is key to fostering understanding and change.

Instagram: @thenotmyjobpod // YouTube: @thenotmyjobpod // TikTok: @thenotmyjobpod

In this episode of the Not My Job Pod, host Emily Gant speaks with her friend Zane Kelly, who shares their unique experiences working at McDonald's while navigating a significant career change and returning to university. Zane reflects on their time in China during the pandemic, the challenges they faced, and the decision to leave the country. They discuss the importance of language skills and cultural adaptation, as well as his experiences as an older student in university. 

The conversation also touches on the nuances of Scottish culture and language, providing insights into Zane's journey and the impact of their experiences on their current studies. In this engaging conversation, Zane Kelly and Emily Gant explore the nuances of language, culture, and personal experiences. They discuss the challenges of bridging language gaps, the impact of living abroad on linguistic skills, and the sociolinguistic dynamics that shape perceptions of language and identity. 

Zane shares insights from their studies in linguistics, while Emily reflects on her experiences in different cultural contexts. They also delve into career transitions, working at McDonald's, and the cultural identity of being Scottish.

Instagram: @thenotmyjobpod // YouTube: @thenotmyjobpod // TikTok: @thenotmyjobpod

The Not My Job Pod - Episode 1: Heather Kimpton

In the first episode of The Not My Job Pod, I sit down with my best friend, Heather Kimpton, to chat about our very different career paths—me in tech, her in education—and everything we've learned along the way. We get into what it actually feels like to do our jobs, what makes work fulfilling (or not), and how the world of teaching English as a second language has changed over the years.

Heather shares what it’s like teaching ESL in London to a wildly diverse group of students—from beginners to near-fluent speakers, refugees to international school kids. We talk about the power of trauma-informed teaching, why classroom context matters so much, and how different people learn languages in totally different ways. There’s also some real talk about the messiness of for-profit education and the quiet, everyday ways teachers shape people’s lives.

It’s honest, reflective, a little nerdy, and packed with the kind of insight you only get from someone who's been around the block.

Instagram: @thenotmyjobpod // YouTube: @thenotmyjobpod // TikTok: @thenotmyjobpod

In this interview with Martin Hergert, a Berlin candidate for the Berlin Senate with the Volt party, as we explore innovative politics at the local and European levels. Martin shares insights on how European values translate into local policy, the housing crisis in Berlin, and ways for residents (particularly immigrants) to become more involved in democracy.

In this episode:

• Martin's background in business and his transition into politics with Volt
• The core principles and values of Volt and its pan-European approach
• How international experiences influence local political perspectives
• The significance of civic participation beyond elections
• Challenges faced in Berlin's housing market, including rent caps and urban development
• The importance of digitalization and administrative efficiency in city governance
• The debate around extending voting rights to long-term residents and foreigners
• Strategies to combat political polarization and misinformation
• The role of coalition-building and focus on key policies
• Martin's realistic goals for Volt in Berlin's upcoming elections
• How local politics can learn from international best practices

Martin emphasizes that democracy extends far beyond voting - encouraging active participation at community levels, involvement in NGOs, sports clubs, and neighborhood initiatives. His perspective underscores the importance of pragmatic coalition building, policy focus, and citizen empowerment in shaping Berlin’s future.

Instagram: @thenotmyjobpod // YouTube: @thenotmyjobpod // TikTok: @thenotmyjobpod

Berlin-based sex and relationship counselor Alexandra Suarez shares insights on the complexities of sexual and relationship health, cultural influences, and navigating personal growth in a dynamic city like Berlin. Whether you're exploring open relationships, cultural differences, or personal boundaries, Alexandra offers practical guidance rooted in psychological and somatic awareness.

Key Topics

• How Alex's academic background in sexuality and gender studies shaped his career path
• Differences in medical versus counseling approaches to sexual health
• The importance of curiosity and self-awareness in exploring sexuality and relationships
• The process of unpacking shame and internalized societal messages
• Navigating culture and language barriers in multicultural relationships
• The importance of safety, self-regulation, and gradual steps when exploring new sexual experiences
• How motherhood impacts personal identity, sexuality, and body relationship
• The role of vulnerability, emotional safety, and the polyvagal theory in therapy
• Adjusting to life in Berlin's open scene versus pursuing traditional relationship models
• The potential future of counseling, including group therapy and the influence of AI tools

Connect with Alex Suarez

• Instagram
• Website

Instagram: @thenotmyjobpod // YouTube: @thenotmyjobpod // TikTok: @thenotmyjobpod

Join Emily Gant as she chats with Pip Roper, a Berlin-based tour guide, improviser, and podcast host, about the joys and challenges of creativity, community, and navigating late-stage capitalism. This episode dives into the power of humor, the importance of authentic human connections, and how embracing your passions can transform your outlook on life.

In this episode, we discuss:

• How guiding tours and improv comedy bring both joy and income
• The enduring value of human connection in tourism
• Why storytelling and gossip make history more engaging
• The significance of community in personal and artistic growth
• How Berlin’s unique scene fosters creativity and openness
• The role of humor and play in mental well-being
• The importance of local experiences over streaming fame
• Strategies for overcoming social anxiety and self-doubt
• The influence of history on contemporary identity and politics

Resources & Links:

• History Flakes Podcast
• Comedy Cafe Berlin

Instagram: @thenotmyjobpod // YouTube: @thenotmyjobpod // TikTok: @thenotmyjobpod

In this episode, Emily Gant hosts Liz Lee, a Paris-based content creator, to share her firsthand experience navigating the complex visa landscape in France. From visa types and legal nuances to the realities of expatriate life, this conversation offers practical advice for anyone considering a move to France.

- Differences between expat and immigrant statuses and their implications
French visa options including long stay visitor and talent visas
- The impact of remote work restrictions on visa eligibility
Bureaucratic challenges and common misconceptions in France's immigration system
- Building a case for the talent visa through professional and social ties
- Comparisons of visa processes in Germany and France
- The importance of establishing local connections for successful migration
- Experiences with France's housing market and potential scams targeting foreigners
- The cultural and lifestyle benefits of living in Paris versus Berlin
- Emotional aspects of expat life, including grief, nostalgia, and personal growth

Resources & Links:
Keys to France - Immigration Lawyer
French Talent Visa Requirements
Germany Residency & Citizenship Info
[How to Apply for French Citizenship](https:// diplomatie.gouv.fr/en/)
Connect with Liz Lee:
Instagram/TikTok @ lizleatrice

Instagram: @thenotmyjobpod // YouTube: @thenotmyjobpod // TikTok: @thenotmyjobpod

Emily Gant interviews Goatz about the unique techno club culture in Berlin, focusing on the role of awareness teams in ensuring safety and creating a supportive environment. They discuss the differences between clubbing in Berlin and New York, the importance of community, and the resources available for harm reduction. Goatz shares personal experiences and insights into the evolving landscape of Berlin's nightlife, emphasizing the creativity and inclusivity that define the scene.

• Awareness teams in Berlin clubs focus on harm reduction and creating safer spaces.
• Berlin's club culture is unique compared to other cities, particularly in its approach to drug use and safety.
• The awareness team provides support for various situations, including harassment and panic attacks.
• Community building is a significant aspect of nightlife in Berlin, with many friendships formed in clubs.
• DIY spaces offer a more intimate and community-focused alternative to commercial clubs.
• Berlin's nightlife is characterized by a diverse range of events and creative expressions.
• The cost of going out in Berlin is generally lower than in cities like New York.
• Longer parties tend to have more awareness cases due to extended time spent in the club.
• Berlin's club scene is evolving, with some famous clubs closing down.
• There are numerous resources available for those struggling with substance use in Berlin.

Instagram: @thenotmyjobpod // YouTube: @thenotmyjobpod // TikTok: @thenotmyjobpod

Jonny Whitlam, a seasoned tour guide in Berlin, shares his journey from guiding tours to becoming a content creator on social media. He discusses the challenges and rewards of self-employment, the importance of engaging with diverse audiences, and the impact of AI on content creation. The conversation also touches on the complexities of Berlin's history, the balance between personal experiences and historical facts, and the need for tour guides to adapt to the evolving landscape of tourism.

• Jonny Whitlam has been a tour guide in Berlin for over 15 years.
• He transitioned from managing tours to focusing on content creation.
• The importance of engaging with diverse audiences during tours.
• Social media has opened new opportunities for tour guides.
• The balance between personal experiences and historical facts is crucial.
• AI-generated content can lack the authenticity of personal storytelling.
• Tour guiding in Berlin has minimal regulations compared to other countries.
• The evolution of content creation has changed the tourism landscape.
• Navigating self-employment comes with its own challenges and rewards.
• Finding a balance between work and personal life is essential.

Jonny Whitlam, tour guiding, Berlin history, social media, content creation, self-employment, AI in content, historical perspectives, Cold War, World War II

Instagram: @thenotmyjobpod // YouTube: @thenotmyjobpod // TikTok: @thenotmyjobpod